As we reach the end of 2024, it’s time to reflect on the evolving landscape of lone worker safety concerns. This year has brought significant economic pressures, regulatory changes, and an increased focus on mental health, all of which have impacted how businesses safeguard their employees, particularly those working alone.
In this article, we will highlight the key worker safety concerns in 2024, including regulatory compliance, data privacy, and the shift towards proactive safety measures. By taking stock of these challenges, organisations can better prepare for the future and ensure a safer work environment for all employees.
1. Economic pressures and cost-cutting
In a year marked by economic challenges, many businesses have had to make difficult budget decisions, often reducing resources in ways that affect lone worker safety. Cost-cutting measures, such as moving away from the buddy system, have led companies to seek alternative solutions to ensure worker safety without compromising financial stability. This shift has driven adoption of cost-effective lone worker devices and monitoring systems as replacements, which enable companies to protect lone workers while managing operational costs.
Tip: Employers can balance safety and budgets by investing in scalable lone worker solutions, like SafeTCard devices, which offer comprehensive safety features while keeping expenditures in check.
2. Increased incident risks
Workplace incidents remain a significant concern, with an increase in lone workers roles in sectors like healthcare, retail, and social work. According to 2024 data, fatality rates have slightly risen above the average, particularly for workers in high-risk roles where isolated incidents can be harder to address promptly.
Tip: Ensure workers in risk-prone industries have access to safety devices that offer immediate response capabilities, such as duress alarms and GPS tracking on activation, to mitigate response delays and enhance lone worker monitoring and protection.
3. Mental health and psychosocial safety
Mental health-related claims continue to grow, now constituting 11% of serious injury claims. For lone workers, prolonged isolation combined with stressful environments can exacerbate mental health challenges, further emphasising the importance of psychosocial safety in the workplace.
Tip: Employers should incorporate mental health support and regular check-ins for lone workers, in addition to deploying safety devices that offer quick access to help when needed.
4. Optimising response times in critical moments
For lone workers, delays in response times can increase the risks they face. Ensuring quick access to assistance requires seamless, direct, and reliable monitoring solutions. Organisations are increasingly recognising the advantage of using a fully integrated, in-house Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), like SafeTCard’s, over third-party or offshore monitoring services. With locally based and dedicated response teams, it ensures that alerts are addressed instantly without the delays sometimes associated with outsourced services. This approach provides a faster, more reliable safety net.
Tip: Prioritise safety partners with end-to-end solutions. In-house solutions like SafeTCard’s offer continuity, reliability, and a deep understanding of local safety protocols, ensuring swift, tailored responses for lone workers across all sectors. Also look for Australian-based ARCs that meet ASIAL Grade A1 standards.
5. Regulatory compliance and legal liability
With increasing regulatory requirements around worker safety in Australia, compliance has become a top priority for employers to avoid legal liabilities. In 2024, updates to the Work Health and Safety Act and increased penalties for non-compliance have placed additional pressure on businesses to ensure the safety of lone workers. Failure to provide adequate protection can lead to fines, reputational damage, and potential lawsuits, making regulatory compliance a primary concern.
Tip: Stay updated with national and industry-specific safety standards and invest in certified safety solutions, such as SafeTCard’s ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre), which adheres to ASIAL Grade A1 standards for Australian safety compliance.
6. Compliance with Data Privacy and Sovereignty Laws
As safety concerns about data privacy and sovereignty continue to rise, Australian businesses must navigate the complexities of handling personal and location data of lone workers. Compliance with local regulations, such as the Privacy Act 1988 and various data protection frameworks, is essential to avoid legal ramifications. Having data stored and managed onshore ensures that companies can better adhere to these regulations, protecting both their employees and their business interests.
Tip: Choose safety solutions, like SafeTCard’s services, that operate entirely within Australia, ensuring compliance with local data privacy laws while providing peace of mind to both employers and lone workers.
7. Prevention focus over reactivity
Traditionally, many safety measures for lone workers have been reactive, focusing on responses once an incident occurs. However, the shift towards a prevention-focused approach is crucial for enhancing worker safety. Innovations like Yellow voice (a 20 second voice recorded message prior a risky situation) and Chaperone mode (providing continuous support during potential dangerous situations) allow employers to proactively manage safety concerns and risks. This preventative mindset not only enhances employee confidence but also reduces the likelihood of incidents occurring in the first place.
Tip: Invest in technologies that emphasise prevention and proactive monitoring, enabling employers to safeguard their workers and create a culture of safety that prioritises well-being over mere compliance.